support groups...

the benefits

Large numbers are not needed - small is better.
The cost of this community outreach is minimal.
Only two leaders are needed per group.
Groups can be facilitated by people who have limited time in their weekly schedules - Preparation takes approximately 1 hour, the group meets for 1½ - 2 hours, followed by a facilitator's debrief of approximately ½ hour - 45 minutes = 3 hours 45 minutes per 13-14 week cycle.
Please note: Due to administrative responsibilities, the overall coordinator (for the teens and children's programmes) will need to allow approximately 5 hours per week during the cycle. The coordinator will also need to allow considerable time before the cycle to order materials and advertise.
Interaction is personal and extended over a duration of 13-14 weeks.
Participants form friendships that often last beyond the support group.

A medium for honest sharing of personal experiences and feelings.
A place to share common concerns with people who are going through similar experiences.
A safe non-judgmental environment to enable participants to explore and verbalize powerful emotions they might otherwise keep to themselves.
An opportunity to learn coping skills.
An environment of positive reinforcement, emotional support and hopefulness.
An opportunity for group members to pool information about everything from resources for legal, medical, or financial help to referrals for finding the best plumber, mechanic, or decorator.
An opportunity for personal growth.

Therapy groups where facilitators diagnose or treat emotional and/or behavioural problems. The group interaction, however, can be very therapeutic.
Led by counsellors, though they are led by trained facilitators who can steer the session and ensure that the meeting is not dominated by a few individuals.
A dating or matchmaking service.